COMPANION

As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them Luke 24: 15

The incident of Jesus accompanying Cleopas and his friend on the walk to Emmaus is unique to Luke. They left their companions after Peter’s return from the sepulcher and prior to Mary’s good tidings that she had seen Jesus. Their leaving during such a crisis indicates that the scattering of the sheep was beginning to follow the smiting of the shepherd (see Zechariah 13:7 and Matt. 26:31).

 

Who were these two persons? They were followers of Jesus (see Luke 24:13). Jesus knew them and they knew Jesus. Maybe there were among the 72 (see Luke 10:1) who were sent on mission or were among the massive crowd that celebrated Jesus’ entry in Jerusalem eight days before (see Matt. 21:8-11) and remained anticipating something. They witnessed everything that took place in Jerusalem during the last 72 hours (see Luke 24:14). They believed Jesus was a prophet empowered by God to do and say great and amazing things (see Luke 24: 19). The crucifixion and untimely death of Jesus left them depressed, dejected, discouraged and hopeless (see Luke 24:21). The breaking news and information that Jesus’ tomb was empty and the remains were not located left them confused (Luke24:22-24).

Consistent with his approach Jesus joined and accompanied these emotionally battered, bruised, and broken men who had walked away, for whatever reason, from the community of the other broken and bruised men and women. True to form Jesus immediately took an interest in their concerns, conversations and conditions. Their slowness to grasp amazing truths was not condemned. Instead Jesus systematically (Luke 24:27) opened their understanding.

   

Believers and non-believers journey through life bearing the realities and burdens of disappointments, brokenness, hurts, frustrations, loneliness, illness, death, hopelessness, failures etc. The “walk” is often long and torturous. The gospel is that no matter who we are Jesus always joins us and accompanies us. Jesus’ desire is to always be our companion. He participates in our conversations, listens to our concerns and heals our conditions. 

I know that as a fact because that’s how we have been able to cope since April 16 2009 when Janel was promoted to Glory. Yes! Like Cleopas and his friend we were traumatized, broken, confused and many personal and family dreams and hopes dashed. As the signs and shadows of the “empty nest” looms I constantly experience the reassurance that the risen Jesus joins, accompanies and converses with you and I as we journey to our “Emmaus”. 

How is your journey? Remember that there is none like the risen Jesus. He is still in the business of joining, accompanying, conversing and enabling us on our journey.

Thought         :           You never walk alone!
Prayer Focus:           For those who do not know that Jesus is with them.